Currently 27% of landlords who let out a single property either merely break even or run at a loss according to the National Landlords Association (NLA).

The survey also found that 19% of landlords who let out between two and four properties just break even or run at a loss on their portfolio.

Carolyn Uphill, NLA Chairman, said: “These findings point to a significant number of landlords who struggle to make ends meet, and show that for many, being a landlord isn’t just about watching rent money roll in.

“However, with proper planning and financial protection in place many could turn a failing business into a success and we’re urging landlords to explore the range of support the NLA can offer to help run a successful and profitable business.”

The NLA estimates that around half of all landlords let out between one and four properties: 14% of landlords let just a single property, with 36% letting between two and four.